In the now-digital world, Gen Z is extremely reliant on their social media apps to tell them how to dress, what to eat and how to live. While Pinterest and TikTok are always useful tools for figuring out what the latest trends are, here is a quick overview of what to follow and what to avoid.
At the University of Miami, trends range from clothing to accessories to overall aesthetics. If you’re wondering what you should be paying attention to and what you can ignore, look no further. I am here to let you know what’s hot here at UM…and what’s not.
What’s Hot in 2026:
The return of the 2016 aesthetic (and the casual Instagram)
While this is arguably more of a “national” trend, I am pleasantly surprised to see that University of Miami students have adopted the aesthetic.
Flower crowns, Snapchat dog filters and mustache tattoos remind us of a much simpler time in our lives, and I’m glad to see it making a comeback. With Fetty Wap being out of jail, I couldn’t name a hotter time for this iconic trend to make its grand return a decade later.
Once major brands and influencers like Kylie Jenner and Triangl took to social media to post their decade-old photos, it became evident that this was going to be the hottest trend of the year.
I would also like to point out how much rave culture is returning, especially DJ’s who got their start in 2016 or earlier, and this is very much HOT (Discolines and John Summit, I’m talking about you guys).
Sweat Sets
It seems that athletic wear has become the uniform here at UM, and not just for the ladies. Yes boys, we’ve noticed you all buying the latest colorway of that Alo or Lululemon set.
Although I love a good polka dot sports bra and leggings combo, I’ve found that sweat sets are becoming hotter than ever.
Parke has gained traction online in the past few years, and with their exclusive season drops, it seems they are selling out faster than ever. It’s not uncommon to see the iconic sweatshirts when walking around campus, and while they are a bit pricey, I’d argue the quality is worth it.
I know this might be a bit controversial. Many argue that paying over $100 is quite ridiculous (and very “UM core”) but I think if it makes you feel good, then that’s what really matters.
A more affordable option for sweat sets that are both comfortable and stylish is Aerie, American Eagles athleisure brand. With new colorways dropping often and frequent sales, it’s not hard to find a cute set for less than a Parke sweatshirt.
What’s NOT hot:
Getting black-out drunk
Call me crazy, but I think it’s high time we learn how to handle our liquor and get cute silly drunk rather than falling over and crying drunk.
With functions happening literally every weekend, it can be challenging learning your limits when it comes to alcohol. However, I can guarantee you that no one finds throwing up out of the side of your Uber hot.
A cute little drunk text to your situationship or that guy who asked for your number last week is acceptable, but when 2:30 a.m. hits and now you’re trying to call them out of the blue, we’ve definitely lost the plot.
Going back to your ex
This will NEVER be hot, and especially not in 2026.
Speaking from experience, the urge to go back to someone familiar — whether for a one-night stand or trying again at a long-term relationship — will never end well.
I know it can be tempting to send them a little text or “accidentally” call them, but unfortunately, you’re not fooling anyone with that excuse.
A new year means new relationships, so why go back to something that didn’t work when there’s so much more out there?
Take this as my big sister advice and please, I’m begging you, just put your phone down and go do something other than scroll through pictures of you and your ex.
So, I hope this was a helpful guide of what is totally in and what is most definitely out for 2026. In summary, being yourself and doing what you love is very much the key to having an amazing and successful year, while being a little more than a little messy might just have to be out.
words_hannah valdivia. photo_julia campbell & anna mondschein. design_anna mondschein.
This article was published in Distraction’s Spring 2026 print issue.
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